HINCKLEY'S PARENTS ARE SHOCKED

Hinckley's parents, Jack and Jo Ann Hinckley, were just as surprised as the rest of the country over the announcement of the verdict. They had already prepared a written statement for press release in the event of Hinckley's guilty verdict. They had not seriously considered the possibility of an acquittal; after all, the prosecution seemed exceptionally confident of its case and even had let controversial defense evidence be admitted to ensure the case was not overturned on appeal.

At the reading of the verdict, Hinckley's parents rejoiced and returned home to celebrate the recognition that John was ill and needed treatment. At first, they believed that the nation would recognize that John was disturbted; but, after returning home, the Senior Hinckley's realized this was not the case. Television station after television station reported on this "miscarriage of justice" and "misuse of the insanity defense." Jack and Jo Ann realized their son was still a monster in the eyes of the public. They later appear in public on a Barbara Walters' show to air their feelings and experiences.

HINCKLEY'S PARENTS TODAY

In the years after the verdict, Jack and Jo Ann spent time promoting mental health awareness and aiding in John's rehabilitation. They jointly co-authored a book, Breaking Points, to tell John's story from their perspective and to make others aware of the devastating effects of mental illness. In 1985, Hinckley's parents moved from Colorado to Virginia to be closer to John and attend the monthly family sessions at St. Elizabeth's hospital.